5 Amazing Benefits Of Walking For Postmenopausal Women

Exercise is important to our overall fitness and well-being as we age. Aging can cause mature women to experience decreased muscle tone, flexibility, and stamina. Exercise can help remedy these problems. However, many women do not exercise because it is often difficult to get to the gym, or they think that the only way to do it effectively is to hire a personal trainer.

But, one of the most powerful exercises for mature women is something that is often forgotten when it comes to exercises; walking. Walking can be done at any time and does not require any special training or equipment. Plus, walking has these 5 amazing benefits for postmenopausal women.

• Strengthens bones and joints

As women go through menopause, they often lose bone density. This loss of density can result in osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become brittle and brittle. In our middle-aged years our joints also suffer. After years of excessive use, the seals can become worn and painful. Walking increases blood flow to the bones and joints and therefore increases the amount of oxygen and nutrients in these areas. The result is a decrease in bone density and the joints receive more support.

• Low blood pressure

High blood pressure becomes a problem for many women after menopause. While blood pressure can often be controlled through the use of prescription medications, walking has been shown to be an additional way to lower blood pressure. Brisk walking increases circulation, strengthens the heart, and therefore lowers blood pressure.

• makes you happier

One of the most common side effects of menopause in older women is depression and mood swings. This may be true even if these conditions were not previously a problem. Walking seems to help in this area by helping your body release endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that produce euphoria, or an improvement in mood.

• increase your energy

As we get older, our energy begins to wane. That easy two-mile jog you used to do every morning before work now requires more and more of you to achieve. While you may not be able to run, you may be able to walk at a brisk pace. A brisk 30-minute walk can give you the energy to get through the rest of the day.

• Improves your immune function

Aging and menopause take their toll on our bodies. More specifically, they weaken our immune system. It becomes easier to catch colds, viruses, and other illnesses because our natural defenses are lowered. Studies have shown that walking in its general effect improves our immune function and helps us fight diseases. This is especially important if your ultimate goal is longevity.

As you can see, walking has several benefits for mature postmenopausal women. It is an exercise that can be done, at your convenience or simply as part of your daily activities. One caveat, however, is that for maximum benefit, you need to walk briskly. You can start a brisk walking program on your own or get support by walking with friends. However, if you decide to make brisk walking part of an exercise program, always check with your doctor first.